Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans with Garlic Butter is a show-stopping side dish that combines crispy bacon, tender green beans, and a savory garlic butter glaze. Perfect for holiday feasts, dinner parties, or as an elegant accompaniment to a weeknight meal, this dish strikes the perfect balance of smoky, buttery, and garlicky goodness. Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, these bundles are as delicious as they are visually stunning.

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1. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1.1 A Crowd-Pleasing Combination

• The smoky, salty flavor of bacon complements the fresh, crisp green beans.
• Garlic butter adds richness and depth, making this a side dish to remember.

1.2 Simple Yet Elegant

• Bacon-wrapped bundles look fancy enough for special occasions but are quick and easy to prepare.

1.3 Versatile Pairing

• Pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, from roasted turkey to grilled steaks.

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2. Ingredients You’ll Need

2.1 Main Ingredients

• Fresh green beans (1 lb): Trimmed and washed, ensuring bright, crisp beans.
• Bacon (8-10 slices): Regular or thin-cut works best for crisping.

2.2 For the Garlic Butter

• Butter (3 tbsp): Melted, for glazing the bundles.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a punch of flavor.
• Honey or brown sugar (1 tbsp): Optional, for a touch of sweetness.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances the flavors.

2.3 Optional Garnishes

• Parmesan cheese: For a nutty, cheesy topping.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a pop of color and freshness.

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3. Step-by-Step Instructions

3.1 Prep the Green Beans

1. Blanch the Beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
2. Shock in Ice Water: Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and retain their vibrant green color. Drain and pat dry.

3.2 Assemble the Bundles

1. Divide the Beans: Gather 6-8 green beans into small bundles.
2. Wrap with Bacon: Wrap a slice of bacon tightly around each bundle, securing the ends underneath to hold them in place.

3.3 Make the Garlic Butter

1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add Garlic and Sweetener: Stir in minced garlic, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant.

3.4 Glaze and Bake

1. Brush the Bundles: Arrange the bacon-wrapped bundles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush them generously with garlic butter.
2. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

3.5 Garnish and Serve

1. Add Toppings: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.
2. Serve Hot: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy warm.

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4. Tips for Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans

4.1 Use Fresh Green Beans

• Look for bright, firm green beans for the best flavor and texture. Avoid overly large beans, which can be tough.

4.2 Par-Cook the Bacon

• For faster cooking and crispier bacon, partially cook the bacon slices in a skillet before wrapping the beans.

4.3 Keep the Bundles Neat

• Secure the bacon ends underneath the bundle to prevent unraveling during baking.

4.4 Adjust Sweetness

• For a sweet-savory balance, drizzle maple syrup or sprinkle brown sugar over the bundles before baking.

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5. Serving Suggestions

Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans with Garlic Butter are a versatile side dish that complements many meals.

5.1 Perfect Pairings

• Roast Chicken or Turkey: A classic combination for holiday dinners.
• Grilled Steak: The smoky bacon and garlicky beans balance the richness of red meat.
• Salmon or Pork Chops: Adds a crispy, savory element to lighter proteins.

5.2 Complementary Sides

• Mashed potatoes or wild rice pilaf
• Roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash
• Fresh garden salad or coleslaw

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6. Variations to Try

6.1 Sweet and Spicy

• Sprinkle the bundles with chili flakes or cayenne for heat and drizzle with honey for sweetness.

6.2 Cheesy Delight

• Add shredded Gruyere, cheddar, or mozzarella before broiling for a cheesy crust.

6.3 Herbaceous Twist

• Infuse the garlic butter with rosemary or thyme for a fresh, earthy flavor.

6.4 Vegetarian Option

• Replace bacon with strips of roasted red bell pepper or zucchini for a plant-based version.

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7. Storage and Reheating

7.1 How to Store

• Store leftover bundles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

7.2 How to Reheat

1. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
2. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, but note that bacon may lose some texture.

7.3 Can You Freeze It?

Yes, assemble the bundles and freeze uncooked. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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8. Why This Recipe Works

8.1 Balanced Flavors

• Smoky bacon, garlicky butter, and the freshness of green beans create a harmonious taste.

8.2 Elegant Presentation

• Bundled green beans wrapped in bacon make for a visually appealing side dish that impresses guests.

8.3 Simple Preparation

• Straightforward steps and minimal ingredients make this recipe accessible for cooks of all levels.

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FAQ

1. Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before wrapping to prevent excess moisture.

2. How do I ensure crispy bacon?

Partially cook the bacon before wrapping or broil the bundles for the last few minutes of baking.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bundles up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

4. What’s the best substitute for butter?

Olive oil or ghee can be used as a substitute for butter in the garlic glaze.

5. Can I skip the garlic butter glaze?

Yes, but the glaze adds a rich flavor. Season the bundles generously with salt and pepper if omitting.

6. What other vegetables can I use?

Try wrapping asparagus, baby carrots, or even thin strips of zucchini for a creative twist.

7. Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is low in carbs and fits well within a ketogenic diet.

8. Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, but turkey bacon is leaner and may not crisp as much as regular bacon.

9. How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling?

Wrap the bacon tightly around the beans and place the bundles seam-side down on the baking sheet.

10. Can I add cheese to the bundles?

Absolutely! Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or Gruyere on top before baking or broiling for added flavor.

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Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans with Garlic Butter are a deliciously indulgent side dish that combines smoky, savory, and buttery flavors in every bite. Easy to prepare yet elegant to serve, they’re sure to become a favorite for holidays, parties, and family dinners alike.